By Jenna Blair
Popular jewelry brand Alex and Ani aims to create sustainable bracelets, necklaces, earrings, and rings that awaken the mind and empower the soul. Founded by Carolyn Rafaelian in in Rhode Island in 2004, the company is named after her two daughters. Alex and Ani has gained a cult following, especially on the East Coast, through jewelry made from recycled odds and ends.
Their most popular items are their charm bangle bracelets. These bracelets have an expandable wire that makes bangles easier and more comfortable to wear for people of various wrist sizes. The selection of bangle bracelets is endless! There are numerous categories to choose from including birthstones, initials, religious symbols, spiritual tokens, mantras, and sports teams.
I remember when I purchased my first Alex and Ani bracelet in 2015. I had been eyeing them for some time and on a trip to Washington D.C. my mom and I came across one of the stores while out shopping. I was probably in the store for an hour, walking around, fascinated by all the items I could choose from. I finally decided on a simple, gold bangle bracelet with a diamond stone charm in the middle. Since then, I have acquired several of their other charm bangle bracelets, as well as a few other pieces of their jewelry. I guess you could say I’m a pretty big fan of theirs.
Alex and Ani often team up with other companies to produce themed collections. They partnered with Disney to design a Disney collection, sold only at the Walt Disney World Resort, Disneyland Resort, and online at DisneyStore.com. Alex and Ani also collaborate with non-profits to raise awareness and money for various causes. Their ‘Charity By Design’ collection features charm bangles supporting Edesia nutrition, UNICEF, the PeaceLove Foundation, and most recently, the Children’s Glaucoma Foundation. Twenty percent of purchases are donated to each charity respectively.
Alex and Ani’s eco-friendly aesthetic and positive aura have really helped to skyrocket their success. To learn more about their brand head to alexandani.com.
Photo Credit
Jenna Blair @jenna_blair24